Hanuman Jayanti & Ram Navami processions get HC nod in Sambalpur

Bhubaneswar: The Orissa High Court (HC) has granted permission for Hanuman Jayanti processions in Sambalpur, directing the state government to ensure adequate security arrangements.This ruling follows a public interest litigation (PIL) that sought to ban the event due to concerns about potential unrest.In 2023, violent clashes erupted during Hanuman Jayanti celebrations in Sambalpur, resulting in widespread property damage. To restore order, authorities imposed a curfew and suspended internet services.With this year’s Hanuman Jayanti falling on April 14, there were renewed concerns over the possibility of disturbances, prompting the PIL that sought to prevent the procession.

During the hearings, the petitioner raised concerns about the high risk of violence and called for the deployment of central security forces. They cited the previous year’s incidents as a reason for heightened vigilance.
The state government, however, assured the court that all religious processions would be allowed to proceed, with strict measures in place to maintain law and order. The central government also stated there were no specific intelligence reports indicating the likelihood of unrest.

After considering arguments from both sides, the HC stressed the importance of ensuring a peaceful celebration and urged the administration to take all necessary precautions. The court also acknowledged the state government’s security measures and intelligence assessments.With the court’s approval, authorities are set to deploy a significant security presence and implement preventive measures to prevent any untoward incidents, ensuring communal harmony during the celebrations.